Group Friendly Attractions

Following the latest government advice on social distancing and avoiding public gatherings, BCP Council is taking the sensible precaution to protect the public by reducing some non-essential council services – please see the latest closure details on the BCP website and for more information visit our advice page.

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Poole offers a superb range of attractions, activities, festivals and events all year round.  Explore new places with your group, visit your favourite attractions or try something new.

Take a look at the Poole Town Centre Map, which highlights coach parking information. Information on Public toilets in Poole can be found on the main council website.

Here’s just a few ideas of places to visit in Poole. You can contact the attractions directly to book a visit in advance, find out about group rates and get further information to make the most of your visit. 

Poole Quay for Groups

Poole Quay is a perfect location for groups with a central drop off point at the heart of the quayside and free off site coach parking. Enjoy fabulous harbour views from a wide range of waterside cafes, bars & restaurants, browse in the shops or take a harbour cruise and see Poole from the water.

Poole Quay Highlights

Poole Museum
Dorset's most visited free attraction, Poole Museum offers a great time for all, located in a historic quayside buildings in Poole’s Old Town, also home to Poole's Tourist Information Centre.
Discover the remarkable story of this historic port and its harbour and see outstanding exhibits. Floor 3 has the world’s best public display of Poole Pottery, revealing the remarkable story of this unique British pottery business including an original potter's wheel.  

Situated approximately 500 metres from the coach drop off point, the museum has disabled access, toilets and a lift to its three floors and a cafe.

Poole History

Take a self guided Cockle Trail one hour walk (pick up a leaflet, 50p from the Tourist Information Centre or download a copy). Follow the brass panels set into the pavement exploring Poole's seafaring history. Visit Poole's historic Old Town and 18th Century Merchant Houses where Poole gained its fortune from rich trade with Newfoundland. 
 
A visit to Poole Quay isn't complete without a Harbour Cruise...
City Cruises Poole
City Cruises Poole offer a wide range of cruises throughout the year. See the best views in Dorset with our sightseeing, dining and evening cruises. Whether it’s a short cruise in Europe’s largest natural Harbour, a cruise down the Jurassic Coast to the Victorian resort of Swanage, or a Sea Train Adventure, there is something for all tastes. With a licensed bar & tea / coffee lounges onboard and a full commentary from our experienced Captains we will make your trip extra special. 

Brownsea Island Ferry Trips available with Greenslades Pleasure Boats.
Come see the wonderful Poole Harbour and Dorset coastline from a different angle. Take one of the many boat trips and pleasure cruises that regularly run from the town’s bustling quayside, around the harbour or along the Wareham River. With 3 boats offering capacity for 150-179 people space for a dance floor, disco, live bands plus a fully licensed bar, it is a great option for groups.